Lodha proposes pet care training institute in Mumbai after Pune; public feedback sought

After Pune, a pet care education and training institute will now be opened in Mumbai as well. Skill Development Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha has taken the initiative on the lines of the Pet Care Education and Training institute recently started in Pune. Lodha also said there is an intention to start a special pet care course at the state's Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs).

Before the institute is started in Mumbai, suggestions and objections are being invited from animal lovers and ordinary citizens. A Google Form link has been shared on Lodha's official social media account for the purpose. The minister has appealed to citizens to visit the link and record their opinions, suggestions and objections.

Lodha said the Pet Care Education and Training (PETE) initiative will train people in modern, scientific and ethical methods, with the care, health, safety and well-being of pets as the first priority. Accredited certificate courses are planned separately for young men and women who want to build a career in pet care, for professionals already working in the field, and for pet owners.

The training will cover several subjects, including pet handling, dog walking, pet sitting, pet grooming and the management of housing and care facilities for pets. There will be special emphasis on practical training, so that students can learn skills through direct experience in modern facilities. Online courses are also planned for pet parents, giving information on pets' health, upbringing and well-being.

The Pet Care Education and Training Ecosystem (PETE) is an important initiative in the field of pet care and animal welfare. It will help build the skilled human resources needed to ensure pets receive world-class services and proper care. It is also expected to encourage new opportunities for employment and self-employment in the sector.

The main aim of the initiative is to raise pets' standard of living while improving the skills and professional capacity of those who care for them. Lodha made it clear that further plans for starting such an institute in Mumbai will be made after learning the suggestions and expectations of animal lovers and citizens.